New York, July 17, 2023 – Zambia’s Ministry of Finance and National Planning is actively pursuing policies and programs aimed at ensuring broader access to education, according to Ms. Lois Mulube, the Acting Permanent Secretary. Speaking at a side event co-sponsored by Zambia during the High-Level Political Forum at the United Nations Headquarters, Ms. Mulube emphasized that education is a fundamental right for all children, as it paves the way for their development and protection.
“We firmly believe that education serves as an equalizer, providing our children with the springboard to realize their full potential,” she stated, underlining the government’s commitment to empowering future generations.
In the same event, Ms. Mulube highlighted the Zambian government’s recognition of the importance of breaking the intergenerational cycle of poverty, which necessitates empowering women and girls. By fostering economic empowerment among women, an inclusive environment is created where their contributions are fully acknowledged and valued.
Dr. Chola Milambo, representing Zambia’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations, moderated another session during the event. Ms. Mwila Daka, the Acting Director of the Development Planning Department at the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, shared some transformative actions implemented by the government to ensure inclusivity and leave no one behind.
One of the notable programs is the World Bank-funded Girls Education and Women’s Empowerment and Livelihoods (GEWEL) Project. This initiative aims to provide livelihood support for extremely poor rural women while enhancing access to secondary education for disadvantaged girls identified from similarly disadvantaged households in selected districts.
Zambia’s unwavering commitment to education access and women’s empowerment signals a step forward in fostering a brighter and more equitable future for the nation. Through targeted policies and initiatives, the country is striving to empower its citizens and create opportunities for progress and development.
